Wal-Mart thief takes officers on high speed chase in Thibodaux

THIBODAUX, LA (NBC33) — A man with an extensive criminal history is back behind bars today for taking police on a high speed chase after he allegedly stole items from the area Wal-Mart.

The Thibodaux Police Department reports that the incident occurred on Thursday, Aug. 16 at roughly 9:30 a.m. It all started after an officer spotted a white 1993 Oldsmobile being driven recklessly on St. Patrick Street in Thibodaux. We’re told the vehicle nearly struck a passing vehicle.

The officer attempted a traffic stop but the driver kept going. The driver is said to have gone in excess of 106 mph during one point of the chase.

The pursuit continued for more than 5 miles to the neighboring community of Chackbay. By this point multiple law enforcement agencies responded with assistance.

During the chase the suspect is said to have rammed a Police vehicle. The chase finally ended after the vehicle went through the back yard of someone’s home and crashed.

The suspect, Claude Galmore, 52, of Houma was arrested and charged for Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Felony Theft of Goods, Remaining After Being Forbidden, and Driving Under Suspension.

Officers learned that Galmore had allegedly stolen over $800 in merchandise from Wal-Mart and was attempting to getaway from the scene when he was spotted by the officer.

Galmore was booked at the Lafourche Parish Detention Center in lieu of a $185,000 bond.